Assam continues to solidify its position as a key player in India’s energy sector, leveraging its vast hydrocarbon reserves, skilled workforce, and strategic infrastructure projects. Speaking at the Advantage Assam 2.0 Infrastructure and Investment Summit, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the state’s pioneering role in India’s oil industry, boasting four operational refineries with a combined refining capacity of 7.45 million metric tonnes (MMT).
Addressing the thematic session on “Unlocking Assam’s Energy Potential: Building Future-Ready Oil and Gas Infrastructure, Innovation, and Investment Aligned with Global Energy Transitions,” Sarma emphasised Assam’s contributions to India’s energy security. The state holds 12% of the country’s natural gas reserves and produces 50% of India’s onshore natural gas, positioning itself as a critical supplier in the nation’s energy landscape.
Expanding Oil & Gas Infrastructure
Assam’s energy ecosystem is expanding through major infrastructure projects. The Barauni-Guwahati Pipeline (BGPL) is connecting Assam to the national gas grid, while the 1,670 km North East Gas Grid (NEGG) is enhancing regional energy distribution. Additionally, the City Gas Distribution (CGD) network is witnessing rapid expansion, with 22 CNG stations promoting clean energy adoption across the state.
Boosting Industrial and Petrochemical Growth
Assam is home to key players in the petrochemical sector, including Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Limited (BCPL), Assam Petro-chemicals Limited (APL), and Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL). These entities collectively contribute over ₹11,700 crore annually in royalties and taxes, reinforcing the state’s economic strength.
Sarma underscored that Assam’s hydrocarbon sector is poised for major growth, with crude oil availability projected to double by 2030, and natural gas production expected to rise from 3.2 to 6.3 billion cubic meters (BCM). Capacity expansions in NRL and BCPL further signify Assam’s transformation into a petrochemical hub, fostering industrial expansion and job creation.
Advancing Green Energy & Innovation
In line with global energy transitions, Assam is making strides in green hydrogen and renewable energy. Oil India Limited (OIL) has set up India’s first Green Hydrogen plant in Jorhat, producing 10 kg per day using solar power. Collaborative efforts with IIT Guwahati are driving research in green hydrogen integration for transportation and industrial use.
The state is also emerging as a hub for sustainable fuels, with investment opportunities in green hydrogen, green ammonia, sustainable aviation fuels, compressed biogas, and smart chemicals. Sarma emphasized that Assam is not only expanding its traditional energy sector but also embracing the future of clean energy.
Strategic Vision for Energy Transition
Assam’s energy journey is not just about hydrocarbons but also about sustainable growth and modernization. With a 19% economic growth rate in 2023 and rapid infrastructure advancements, the state is gearing up to become a major contributor to India’s energy security.
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On the occasion, Sarma also virtually inaugurated several CNG retail projects in Kokrajhar and Amguri, further accelerating Assam’s transition to clean and efficient energy solutions.